A minicomputer is a type of computer that is larger and more powerful than a microcomputer but smaller than a mainframe computer. It was introduced in the 1960s and 1970s, and was commonly used by medium-sized businesses, universities, and research institutions.
Minicomputers typically used multi-user operating systems and were designed to handle a wide range of applications, including scientific calculations, data processing, and business operations. They were smaller and less expensive than mainframe computers but still offered a significant amount of processing power, storage capacity, and input/output (I/O) capabilities.
Some of the notable characteristics of minicomputers include:
Multi-user support: Minicomputers were designed to support multiple users simultaneously, typically through a time-sharing system.
Expandability: Minicomputers were modular in design, allowing users to add or replace components such as memory, storage, and input/output devices as needed.
Peripheral support: Minicomputers typically supported a wide range of peripherals, including printers, tape drives, and other types of I/O devices.
Reliability: Minicomputers were known for their reliability and stability, and were often used for mission-critical applications such as process control and manufacturing.
With the advent of more powerful microcomputers and servers in the 1990s, minicomputers gradually became less common. However, they played an important role in the development of modern computing technology and paved the way for the growth of the computer industry.